Aleix Garcia in action for Leverkusen

West Ham target Aleix Garcia to replace Paqueta creativity gap

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Mar 28, 2026, 11:23 am
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Image: IMAGO / Newspix

Aleix Garcia transfer interest to West Ham is gathering momentum ahead of the summer window, with the Premier League side reportedly identifying the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder as a key target.

Following the departure of Lucas Paquetá in January, West Ham have struggled to replicate the same level of creativity in midfield. That gap has become increasingly evident in recent performances, prompting the club to prioritise reinforcements ahead of next season.

Now, attention has turned to Garcia, whose performances in Germany have attracted interest from across Europe.

Aleix Garcia emerges as West Ham midfield target

Reports suggest West Ham have registered serious interest in signing Garcia this summer, as they look to rebuild their midfield structure.

The 28-year-old joined Bayer Leverkusen after an impressive spell at Girona, where he established himself as one of La Liga’s most effective playmakers.

Since moving to Germany, he has continued to develop, playing a significant role in Leverkusen’s recent success, including their German Super Cup triumph.

Stat (2025/26) Aleix Garcia
Goals 5
Assists 9
Position Midfielder
Club Bayer Leverkusen

source: match data – 27 March 2026

His output highlights the creative qualities West Ham are currently lacking.

From the last few West Ham matches we’ve covered, the absence of a central playmaker has limited their attacking fluidity, particularly in build-up phases.

Why West Ham need a player like Garcia

The departure of Paquetá has left a noticeable gap in creativity, with fewer chances being created from midfield areas.

Garcia’s profile — combining vision, passing range and composure — fits the type of player West Ham are expected to target.

Former Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso previously described him as “outstanding,” underlining his technical quality and influence on games.

However, it remains too early to confirm whether West Ham will formalise their interest with a concrete offer.

Competition could complicate transfer

West Ham are not alone in monitoring Garcia. Interest from clubs in both England and Spain is growing, with Atletico Madrid among those reportedly tracking his situation.

That competition could make negotiations more difficult, particularly given Garcia’s importance to Leverkusen and his consistent performances.

Having followed transfer trends closely, players with proven output across top European leagues often attract multiple suitors, increasing both demand and potential transfer cost.

What this means for West Ham’s rebuild

West Ham’s interest in Garcia signals a clear strategic focus on restoring creativity in midfield.

With the summer window approaching, identifying a player capable of dictating tempo and contributing in the final third will be essential to improving their attacking structure.

At the same time, the club’s final league position could influence both transfer budget and appeal to potential signings.

Key Insights

  • West Ham are showing strong interest in Aleix Garcia
  • The midfielder has 5 goals and 9 assists this season
  • He has been a key player for Bayer Leverkusen
  • Atletico Madrid and other clubs are also monitoring him
  • West Ham are prioritising midfield creativity after Paquetá’s exit

What’s next for West Ham?

West Ham are expected to assess midfield targets ahead of the summer window, with Garcia among the leading candidates.

Formal approaches could depend on competition, financial considerations and the club’s final position in the league.

Would Aleix Garcia be the right player to replace Paquetá at West Ham this summer?

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